Aug. 28, 2025 – From hospital beds to a top-of-the-line kitchen. It’s official –– Mandarin High School is now home to new, state-of-the-art labs and classrooms in support of its Medical and Culinary Career and Technical Education (CTE) Academies. The additions were unveiled at a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by district leaders, elected officials, and dozens of students, staff, and faculty.
“What we’ve created here at Mandarin, and in other programs, is real college and career pathways,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Christopher Bernier.
The new wing – which also includes eight general education classrooms – was funded through the voter-approved half-penny sales tax. For the over 400 students participating in the Culinary Arts program, this means access to two labs, a new classroom, and a wide range of tools and equipment.
Students like Sabian Snowber showcased their skills by preparing and serving crepes for guests.
“It’s genuinely a blessing,” said the junior. “Most schools don’t have this...it’s better than most restaurants.”
Nearly 290 students participating in the school’s Medical CTE program can now learn in a lab equipped with hospital beds, interactive displays, and other upgraded resources.
Visitors touring the new space had the opportunity to get their blood pressure checked by students.
“Having the hands-on opportunity helps so much,” said Piper Durkin, a senior in the medical program. “I'm definitely going to feel more prepared leaving high school.”
Leaders say the new facilities enhance the overall student experience, which includes the opportunity to earn industry-level certifications. Students in the Culinary Arts program can earn ServSafe certifications, and students in the medical program can earn EKG and CMAA (Certified Medical Administrative Assistant) certifications.
Construction on the new addition began in 2024. Harvard Jolly | PBK served as the architect, and Bastson-Cook was the construction management team. District leaders say the project allowed for the removal of 20 aging portables and a refreshing of the driver’s education course. You can learn more about ongoing and upcoming projects by visiting our Master Facility Plan website.
About Harvard Jolly | PBK
Founded in 1938, Harvard Jolly | PBK has proudly served Florida for more than 87 years, specializing in the design of innovative educational facilities that inspire learning and support student success. As the largest architectural firm dedicated to K-12 education in the nation, we bring both national expertise and a deep understanding of Florida’s unique needs. Harvard Jolly | PBK is proud to continue its partnership with Duval County Public Schools, helping to shape the future of education in Northeast Florida. The addition at Mandarin High School was thoughtfully designed to seamlessly integrate into the existing campus, expanding capacity while enhancing the student experience and preserving the school’s identity. This project reflects our ongoing commitment to creating dynamic, student-centered environments for students, educators, and the community. For more information on our award-winning educational designs: pbk.com
About Batson-Cook Construction
Batson-Cook Construction, founded in 1915, builds a wide range of commercial projects for healthcare, multi-family, office, education, and private development clients throughout the Southeast. Batson-Cook Construction is proud to continue its enduring partnership with Duval County Public Schools, a relationship that began in 1970 with the construction of the original Sandalwood High School. Over the past five decades, Batson-Cook and the district have collaborated on more than 26 projects, each contributing to the growth and modernization of educational facilities across the district. The latest milestone in this partnership with DCPS which is the addition and renovation of Mandarin High School, Batson-Cook partnered with Mim’s Construction. For more information, visit www.batson-cook.com.